In India, where cuisine intertwines with culture, community, and belief systems, “What’s on your plate?” goes beyond a simple veg-or-non-veg answer. A viral Instagram reel by food satirist Krish Ashok (@masalalab) has sparked both laughs and contemplation with clever new labels for India’s ever-adapting diets.
From “Inflexitarians” — vegetarians who dabble in meat while traveling — to “Murgitarians”, loyal only to chicken, Ashok humorously showcases the contradictions in Indian food identities. There are “Kuskatarians”, who crave biryani rice but dodge the meat, and “Festitarians”, who avoid meat during religious days. Meanwhile, “Egalitarians” embrace all foods equally, regardless of setting.
These labels aren’t just jokes; they echo a national shift — from rigid, inherited eating habits to situation-based food choices. According to dietician Kanikka Malhotra, these categories signify a modern tension: honoring traditions while embracing global exposure. Individuals are now navigating between home-based dietary restrictions and socially acceptable flexibility.
This evolving food lexicon also softens the guilt often tied to food decisions. For instance, a “Festitarian” respects faith without lifelong limits, balancing tradition with freedom. However, changing preferences can create family friction, often seen as cultural drift.
In a digital age where identity is fluid, these witty terms help Indians laugh at their own contradictions — and feel seen doing it.
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